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County Clerk clarifies Damascus ballot issue

From: Tracy Moreland, Clackamas County Public & Government Affairs, 503-278-1116

Media and Interested Parties

The Clackamas County Elections Office has become aware of claims that some registered voters in the Damascus area have been told that they will not be able to vote at all in the May primary election.

"These claims are false, and we apologize for any inconvenience to the voter," said Clackamas County Clerk Sherry Hall.

The County Elections Office temporarily put some voters in "administratively inactive" status while attempting to determine whether the addresses they are registered at are inside or outside the city of Damascus for the purpose of Measure 93. That measure asks Damascus voters to decide on disincorporation. Measure 93 is a State Measure, and more on it can be found on the Secretary of State's website under "Measures."

State and local authorities have worked to clarify apparent mapping errors affecting some residents. Now those questions have been resolved — following guidance from the Oregon Secretary of State's office — the "administratively inactive" status has been reversed, and the affected voters will receive ballots for the May 17 Election.

Voter registration was not affected, and there was no need for anyone who had a current active voter registration to reregister.

"Some voters in the affected area received ballots that were incorrect due to deficiencies in the description of the city boundary. Those voters will receive a corrected ballot that may or may not contain Measure 93," Hall said.

Voters who receive a corrected ballot and who have not yet returned their original erroneous ballot should return only the corrected ballot. Voters who have already voted and who receive a replacement ballot should complete and return the replacement ballot.

If you believe that you are entitled to a ballot and you have not received one, you are encouraged to contact the County Elections Office.

Regarding those who have de-annexed from Damascus, the County Clerk is following guidance from the Secretary of State's Office. That office can be reached at 503-986-1518.

For more information, members of the media and public may contact Clackamas County Clerk Sherry Hall at 503-722-6086.